Question

Which of the following is a reptilian character of Archaeopteryx lithographica?

Options

• Pneumatic bones and keeled sternum

• Feathery exoskeleton and wings

• Long tail, claws, and scales on body

• Beak and fused skull bones

Answer 1

Archaeopteryx possessed several reptilian characters including a long tail, claws, and scales on body. Additionally, it had single-headed ribs resembling those of crocodiles, homodont teeth in jaws, a sternum without keel, and solid non-pneumatic bones. These features clearly demonstrate its reptilian ancestry.